3 recent Chargers draft picks who are making a huge impression in training camp

Deane Leonard

Deane Leonard was selected in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft and it was not hard to see why the Chargers took him. Leonard obviously was not going to play a huge role right away but his athleticism made him a very interesting developmental pick.

With a defensive-minded head coach in Staley, there was potential for Leonard to eventually blossom into a legitimate difference-maker on the defensive side of the ball. That may happen earlier than expected in 2023 as Leonard has looked really great in camp thus far.

The secondary is loaded with talent and on another team Leonard might already be in line to start or get consistent snaps on the defensive side of the ball. If he continues to play the way he has thus far then the Chargers will have no choice but to work him into the rotation in a more prominent role.

Leonard was a big standout in training camp last year as well but he was ultimately limited to special teams duties in his rookie season. He thrived in that setting alongside fellow rookie Ja'Sir Taylor and was even part of the biggest special teams play of the season that won the Chargers a game against the Denver Broncos.

It still might be another year until Leonard is a consistent member of the defense that plays over 50% of the snaps but when he gets his chances in 2023 he will certainly be ready.